In cases of kyphosis, the middle section of vertebrae, known as the thoracic vertebrae, are curved out of position. Everyone has some amount of curvature in their spine to allow space inside the chest for organs such as the heart and lungs. There is a range of curvature which is considered normal. However, excessive curvature can lead to symptoms. Poor posture in childhood, such as slouching, leaning back in chairs and carrying heavy schoolbags, can cause the ligaments and muscles that support the vertebrae to stretch.
This can pull the thoracic vertebrae out of their normal position, resulting in kyphosis. Kyphosis can also be caused when the vertebrae don't develop correctly.
They can take on a wedged, triangular shape, rather than the normal rectangular, box-like shape. Braces are indicated if the patient is still growing and has moderate to severe kyphosis with curves of 45 degrees or more and may have a long-term corrective effect.
Bracing in adults for this condition is uncommon, with a goal of controlling pain, not correcting the kyphosis. Specific exercises may be recommended to strengthen the abdominal muscles and increase spinal flexibility. Surgery may be required for painful curves that are greater than 70 degrees or are progressive. Latrogenic kyphosis. Post-laminectomy kyphosis is the most common type of iatrogenic kyphosis, which can develop following decompressive spine surgery requiring removal of the posterior elements of the spine the spinous processes, laminae, and intervening ligaments , typically for tumor removal in children and adolescents.
If kyphosis is suspected, it is advisable for patients to consult their primary care physician, chiropractor, or other spine specialist to obtain an accurate diagnosis through a physical exam, patient history and, as appropriate, diagnostic imaging such as X-ray or MRI scan. Scheuermann's Disease of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine. Then, 2-inch screws made of titanium are placed in the pedicles. Each vertebra has a strong strut of bone on either side called a pedicle. The center of the vertebral column is hollow, forming a channel to house the spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid.
Extreme caution is taken to protect the spinal cord. Steps we take include pedicle screw placement using real-time X-ray fluoroscopy for guidance and continuous monitoring of the activity of the spinal cord. This is done by placing electrodes on the child from the head to the toes and measuring the signals back and forth. A specialist called a neurophysiologist is in charge of interpreting the spinal cord monitoring and alerting the surgeon of any changes.
Once all the pedicle screws are in position, the kyphosis is corrected. This is a maneuver performed by the surgeon allowing for correction of the arch in the spine. The rods, made of cobalt chrome, are then threaded through the screws and the screws are locked down. This is cut into small matchsticks and packed in along the back of the spine to create the spinal fusion.
Finally, the muscle layers are closed with stitches that dissolve inside the body. The outermost skin layer is closed with butterfly closures or stitch tapes. These adhesive stitches fall off on their own, after the skin has knit itself back together. Health Home Conditions and Diseases.
What are the different types of kyphosis? Postural Kyphosis Postural kyphosis, or postural roundback, is thoracic kyphosis greater than 50 degrees with normal-shaped vertebrae. Congenital Kyphosis A diagnosis of congenital kyphosis assumes a difference in the shape of one or more vertebrae. What causes kyphosis? Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Kyphosis Open pop-up dialog box Close.
Kyphosis An increased front-to-back curve of the upper spine is called kyphosis. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Kado DM. Overview of hyperkyphosis in older persons. Accessed April 14, Frontera WR.
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